August 10

Jeremiah 16:1-18:23, 35:1-19

There are times when it feels like our country and our world are doomed. Our culture has not only turned from God’s word but has completely gone against it. I often ask my sisters how difficult it is to raise their kids in this environment. From my perspective it seems like there is no hope for the younger generations. To me this problem also seems like a relatively new phenomenon. Obviously, in today’s reading we are reminded this is not anything new. Jeremiah uses the voice God gives him to highlight the evil of the day, and even warns parents not to have children as they will succumb to the horrible symptoms of sin.

As we continue to read, we learn not all is lost. The Lord will restore Israel. In Jeremiah 16:16 the LORD tells Jeremiah he is sending fishermen and hunters to restore the Israelites. Approximately 550 years later Jesus tells Simon (Peter) and Andrew to follow him as he will make them fishers of men (Matthew 4:19). So, all is not lost. When things look bleak, there remains a God that loves us beyond compare and will bring us back to fellowship with Him.

Lord, thank you for loving me the way you do. Thank you for sending Christ to redeem us so we can return to a relationship with you. Fill me with wisdom that I might be a light in this fallen world that ultimately points to you and your love for us. Amen. 

What can we do to bring encouragement to our friends and family when it seems like our culture has turned from God?

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